Turkey Set to Launch 5G Tender in August, Says Minister
ISTANBUL: Turkey is taking a major step toward its digital future with plans to conduct a tender for 5G network services in August 2025. This was confirmed by Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu during a media interaction in Istanbul, where he expressed confidence that the process would move forward on schedule barring any unforeseen issues.
"I think we will hold this tender in August if there are no issues," the minister said, adding that the launch of 5G services is expected to commence next year.
Rather than deploying 5G across the entire nation at once, Turkey plans to begin in densely populated provinces and gradually expand. “This phased rollout mirrors the strategy we used during the 4.5G deployment,” Uraloglu noted. The focus will be on ensuring reliable infrastructure and performance in high-demand urban areas before moving on to other parts of the country.
The minister also emphasized the importance of strategic planning and technological preparedness, especially in an era where digital connectivity plays a central role in economic development, governance, and public services.
In addition to updates on telecom infrastructure, Uraloglu addressed concerns related to Turkish civil aviation amid the Iran-Israel conflict. He confirmed that due to regional airspace closures, a total of 11 Turkish civilian aircraft are currently grounded — seven in Iran and four in Iraq.
“These aircraft belong to Turkish Airlines, its subsidiary AJet, Pegasus Airlines, and Tailwind Airlines,” Uraloglu said. “We are working closely with our foreign ministry and intelligence agency (MIT) to monitor the situation and ensure the safe return of these planes.”
He added that aviation traffic in the region remains high, and authorities are exercising caution to avoid any risks. “At the first opportunity, we will bring the aircraft and crews back safely,” he assured.
The briefing highlighted Turkey’s dual focus on technological advancement and geopolitical awareness, as it moves forward with both domestic connectivity goals and international coordination efforts.